1987 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 1981 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 (192 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 305 kg more than 1981 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Mazda RX-7 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1981 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 | 1981 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | 164 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
